VNHSW operates via a ‘Hub and Spoke’ model. Cardiff and Vale UHB host the national ‘hub’ for VNHSW. The team comprises of VNHSW Director, a Clinical Highly Specialist Psychologist, Veteran Therapist and Consultant Psychiatrist. The team also employs dedicated administration and an Assistant Psychologist.
VNHSW Director & Consultant Clinical Lead is Dr. Neil Kitchiner is responsible for the day to day running of the Veterans' NHS Wales, including service supervision and facilitating training of the veterans’ therapists (VTs). Neil served as a Captain in the Army Reserve at 203 (Welsh) Field Hospital, Army Reserve Centre, Cardiff between 2011-2014. He deployed to Afghanistan Oct 13 - Jan 14 as part of the Tri-service Field Mental Health Team, OP HERRICK 19A. Neil is also responsible for the Cardiff and Vale UHB service.
The five ‘spoke’ health boards are: Aneurin Bevan, Betsi Cadwaladr, Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Hywel Dda and Swansea Bay. Veterans residing in the Powys Teaching Board area are referred to their neighbouring health boards in Aneurin Bevan, Swansea Bay and Betsi Cadwaladr. You can find details of these teams here.
For veteran’s resident in Cardiff and The Vale of Glamorgan:
For veterans resident in Cardiff and The Vale of Glamorgan:
Please contact the team on 029 2183 2261 or e-mail admin.vnhswc&This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Veterans' NHS Wales service leaflet for Cardiff & Vale is available Yn Gymraeg and in English.
Cardiff and Vale UHB Team
Dr Neil Kitchiner
Director & Consultant Clinical Lead
Dr Gwen O’Connor
Clinical Psychologist
Dr Bhushan Vaidya
Consultant Psychiatrist
Helen Dare
Assistant Psychologist
Charlotte Jacobsen
Veteran Therapist
Melissa Williams
Hub Administrator
Main Office and Clinic: Cardiff Royal Infirmary
